Let's Go Back for Nov. 29, 2013

40 Years Ago, Nov. 21, 1973

Statewide speed limit set at 50 mph during national fuel crisis

The maximum state speed limit, now 50 mph as posted on entrances to New York state and on state and interstate highways within the state, is also in effect on Erie County highways, Kenneth L. Reitmeier, deputy commissioner of public works, announced.

Although the county Division of Highways, as well as the cities, towns and villages within Erie County will not be erecting new maximum state speed limit signs on county highways and local streets and roads, the new maximum speed limit of 50 mph is nevertheless in effect. Where a speed limit is lower than the 50 mph state maximum, the lower limit currently posted will continue in effect.

"With our county and nation facing (an) energy shortage, we should all do our part to help conserve energy," said County Executive Edward V. Regan. "The above highway rules will greatly assist toward that end. ..."

30 Years Ago, Nov. 18, 1983

Town Board approves 1984 budget

The Grand Island Town Board Nov. 10 approved the $1,833,728 budget at a public hearing, which also included approving projects to be financed by the federal revenue sharing fund.

The general budget calls for a tax rate of $4.75 of assessed valuation, the same as the 1983 rate, which showed a decrease of $4 over the previous year. The amount to be raised by taxes is listed as $201,344. The highway budget of $485,346 calls for no increase over the current rate.

20 Years Ago, Nov. 19, 1993

Empire goes on line, gas flows across GI

Though gas from the controversial Empire State Gas Pipeline actually began to flow across Grand Island Nov. 1, ceremonies were held Tuesday at the West River Road pipeline station to indicate the opening of the eastern section of the line from Rochester to Syracuse.

Close to 100 people were on hand for the symbolic "valve turning" which was actually a ribbon-cutting recognizing the partnership of three gas companies in servicing Canada and New York state.

Stressing free trade and hands across the border cooperation, ANR Pipeline (Empire) President Bill Vititoe praised the vision that made the line a reality and emphasized that much had been overcome in constructing the 155-mile pipeline that reaches from Canada to Syracuse. The 24-inch pipeline carries gas at a pressure of 1,400 pounds.

10 Years Ago, Nov. 21, 2003

Detectives search bars for underage drinkers

Sheriff Patrick Gallivan is putting area bar owners on notice that detectives from the Erie County Sheriff's Office and agents from the State Liquor Authority will be conducting random drink details in the upcoming weeks.

"Through a combination of active law enforcement, consumer education and training of wait staff, the problem of underage drinking can and will be dealt with," Gallivan said.

Owners of bars who serve alcohol to minors could face stiff penalties from the SLA and underage drinkers will be arrested.